There are certain state authorities or non-governmental organisations which can help you if you feel that your parents, foster parents or legal guardian have restricted your rights without reason or you have a dispute with them that you cannot solve.

In such situations, you should try to talk to your parents, foster parents or legal guardian first and find a compromise. If it is not possible, you may go to the local guardian authority. 

You must go to the local guardian authority if you are suffering from violence or other similar actions from the people who should be caring for you. There should be a local guardian authority in your municipality and they will know what to do and how to protect you in these situations.

The local guardian authority

The local guardian authority is a state authority which knows how to protect your best interests and rights in all situations. It reviews complaints about the actions of parents, legal guardians and foster families and helps settle disputes between them. They can also provide counselling if you need it. 

If you need protection from the people in whose care you are, the local guardian authority can decide whether you need a legal guardian. If this is necessary, it can also decide whether you should be separated from your family.

example If you are in the care of one of your parents, and this parent does not allow you to see the other parent, the local guardian authority can solve this issue. If you feel threatened by either of your parents or they have been violent towards you, the local guardian authority can also protect you and separate you from them if necessary.

example You may turn to the local guardian authority if you find yourself in a crisis situation, such as suffering from depression, addiction, or verbal violence from an adult.

Non-governmental organisations

There are various non-governmental organizations that help children and families in crisis situations. They may provide you with counselling in your individual situation, for example, if you are suffering from depression or have difficulties within your family.

Read more about non-governmental organisations which might help you:

Resources

Last updated 24/07/2023